Christus en Johannes de Doper 1663 - 1666

Gilles Rousselet created this engraving, Christus en Johannes de Doper, sometime between 1614 and 1686. During this period, Europe was in the throes of the Counter-Reformation, a time when religious imagery was heavily scrutinized. Consider the intimacy captured here between Christ and John the Baptist. Rousselet was working within a religious and political context that sought to reaffirm traditional doctrines, and suppress what the Catholic Church deemed as heresy. The imagery reflects a theological emphasis on Christ's humanity and his relationship with John. Note how the figures are idealized yet still relatable. The gaze shared between them, the gentle touch, it evokes a sense of divine connection and humanity. Rousselet's engraving invites us to reflect on the nature of faith, love, and the human condition within a divine narrative. How does this depiction of Christ and John challenge or conform to your understanding of religious iconography?